Manchester and Music

They go hand in hand, a little like carrots and peas. Or, it being the North West, perhaps that should be balms and cakes.

Whatever the analogy, this city’s musical history surpasses most other British towns’. Which is why we’re so happy to offer a unique combination of serviced apartment and luxury hotel near Manchester Academy, Manchester Apollo, the Bridgewater Hall and Sound Control, alongside a plethora of bars and clubs.

Whether it’s punk and the Buzzcocks, Northern Soul and The Twisted Wheel, or Sankey’s and tribal house, it’s all been going off for some time. This is, after all, a city that boasts more rock stars per head of population than any other. Anywhere.

So what’s new in a city that sleeps, but still likes an odd 24-hour party? This year kicked off with Delphic’s rise to prominence, followed by Airship’s critically acclaimed album, then we’ve had Everything Everything and Hurts to name just four.

But that was then and this is now. With that in mind, here’s a few acts we’ve come across recently that are bound to impact in 2011.

Coupe de Ville

Supporting Reverend Soundsystem, Audio Bullys, Furious 5 and The Fall shows this wholly English outfit are seriously diverse. A shared love of hip-hop, rock, skateboarding and graffiti brought them together, and the October release of Back to The Future cemented their popularity.

Egyptian Hip Hop

The latest protégés from the city that first married synths and guitars are fully-fledged members of the alt-dance scene. They’re great live, and DJ sets in Northern Quarter bars like Common have gone down a storm with peers and the public alike. As yet unsigned, but far from unknown.

Suzuki Method

One of the first acts to sign to Factory Foundation, the latest incarnation of Manchester’s most famous record label, has rightly received plenty of hype. And, following the debut single, an already loyal fan base has blossomed into a veritable army of electro-poppers.

May 68

After playing out and about round these parts for some time it’s surprising they haven’t shot to stardom yet. Regulars at trendy hotspots like The Deaf Institute, their My Space advertises bossa nova, disco house and French pop, which gives an idea of what to expect.

Sophie’s Pigeons

Though the latest EP was recorded in London, it was mixed down the road from Roomzzz in Withington. BBC 6 Music darlings with appearances on Mark Riley’s show under their belt, outstanding performances and strong audience support allude to future greatness.